Education vs schooling

Those who know me have probably already heard my ongoing rant about education and the state of compulsory schooling in America.  I'm becoming much more aware of this thanks to a book by John Taylor Gatto, "Weapons of Mass Instruction."  Gatto is a retired school teacher and passionate about education.  Which is why he left teaching in the public school setting.

Reading this book has made me angry, sad, discouraged, indignant, embarrassed, outraged ... a multitude of emotions in the realm of honest disgust with our system.  I feel so duped and used.  I also feel a bit helpless because I am a victim and a product of this system, whose main purpose is to create helplessness and unproductive automatons. 

Now that my eyes have been opened, what am I to do with this new found knowledge?  How do I improve my own plight?  How do I undo the conditioning and really become educated?  And more importantly, what can I do to help others not become a victim to this same disastrous situation that has perpetrated such a fraud on its own people and ruined so many lives?

The scale of this problem and the nearly zero hope that it will ever change should not be minimized.  No, I am not being melodramatic.  This is serious.

How do kids and people choose their own path, their own education and find a way to be good, productive and self-reliant citizens?  It may not be working for someone else or even acquiring the standard education that is found in our K-12 institutions or even in the universities.  In fact, students can be much more in control of their education by NOT being a part of the system.

Because of this book, I have a renewed and increased respect for homeschoolers.  That was the method of instruction and education when this country was founded and it produced the likes of Thomas Jefferson, George Washington and Benjamin Franklin.  The most admired people of this day?  What did schooling do for them?  Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, Warren Buffet - all did not finish college.  The fallacy that a college degree will ensure success is just that - a myth.

Along with many other notions and ideas in this world, people need to wake up to this fact.  How long will we be controlled by someone else?  And their interests?  We want freedom, but do we really want the responsibility of thinking for ourselves?  They do go hand in hand, ya know. 

Even at what may be considered latter half of my years, I realize there is so much to learn.  My education didn't really even start until I LEFT school.  So much catching up to do, I'm afraid.

So to end this on a hopeful note, it's never too late to learn and expand your knowledge.  That is what education is all about.  It is a lifelong pursuit. 

American Outliers

Okay, I'm wasting a little time watching television today.  Sometimes it's just easy and freeing to turn off the brain and tune into something a little frivolous.  Maybe a "Storage Wars" marathon, or a some DIY show, or even a freak show now and then.  Heaven knows there are plenty of those on TV these days.

I've happened onto National Geographic's series of shows under the theme, "American Outliers."  The underlying theme is that there are groups or individuals who demonstrate a lifestyle, belief system or social mores that are outside the mainstream. 

In a sense, that is what this country was founded upon - people who believed outside the norm "finding themselves" and establishing a place or community where they were free to exercise their beliefs.  We were founded by outliers who defined what it means to be American.

In a sense, as we all struggle to find ourselves and establish our identities as individuals, we're all outliers to a certain degree.  And no other place on the earth can make that claim. 

Consistency is key

"Falling off the wagon"

Maybe that should be the title of this post.  It is a tough thing to deal with though.  Sometimes we kind of "slip" off the wagon and the good habits or good progress is halted.

Whether it's a health thing or a personal development thing, maintaining that momentum is really, really, REALLY HARD.  We can't let ourselves fooled into believing that it isn't.  That is the trickster trying to get us out of improvement mode.

First of all, admitting that it's hard is not a negative affirmation.  It's REALITY.  It helps us to focus more effort on the effort.

Second, if we allow ourselves to believe it's easy, then slipping becomes not so big of a deal.  Our effort is less.  And our appreciation of our oh-so-minor achievements is probably even less.

And finally, understanding how difficult it really is to change gives us hope (and this will sound strange) that it really IS possible.  If we find ourselves going gangbusters, then failing, we are apt to give up.  Once we realize that this is not easy and that continual, consistent effort will be required, we are encouraged to get back to it.  Messing up, slipping, backsliding ... it's part of the process!  It doesn't spell the end of our journey - it's just a detour.

Now it's time to get back on track and get to gettin' about reaching those goals.

Good genes

Having good genes is such a blessing.  I mean, you generally have to play the cards you're dealt.  If you end up with a hand with losers, then it's tough to pull a winning round out of that.  So having a hand of aces is definitely a plus.

It's also well to have some strong attributes, even if you have some other less-than-stellar traits.  It's also a matter of taking what you've been given and playing to those strengths.

I've always been realistic enough to know that modeling and high-level elite athletics was not in my future.  But that's okay.  I did get some pretty darn good attributes from each gene pool.

Namely ...

Good hair

Analytical mind

Soft heart

Sense of humor

Strong teeth & bones

Decent immune system

Good manual dexterity

Above average IQ (at least that's what I've been told - maybe I was just told that and didn't have the intelligence to know the difference.  That would be ironic.)

Ability to receive and process information, learn and assimilate it

Thanks Mom and Dad.  I hope that I am making good use of those good genes.

Past, present and future

It has become apparent that the older you get, the more things start to run together, as far as time and experience goes.  It's easy to lose track of what happened and when.  Something that may seem to have taken place only a year or so ago ... it turns out that it happened five or more years ago.  Gosh, it sure doesn't seem that it was THAT long ago.

Is it a function of a "hazy brain" and do we just lose some of our mental acuity as we age?  Or is our brain only capable of retaining only so much information and memories and the like? 

Is the way that those stories and memories are imprinted so imperfect and an eventual blending is inevitable? 

Or is it just me?  I feel as though I only remember so much and that even those memories that seemed so impervious are now starting to fade.  Or is it a question of priority?  Perhaps what I used to consider a precious memory is now only a fleeting thought, making room for new memories and images that are deemed more important or vital.

All the more reason to record thoughts, ideas, feelings and experiences so as to retain and preserve them.  Some minor insight in the past or present may find new luster in the future.

Relationships that count

It was an important day for me today and I am truly grateful for the people whose support and love mean the most to me.

First and foremost is that of my husband, Harvey.  He has demonstrated beyond a shadow of a doubt that he would go to any length for me.  Not that I would expect anything most outrageous... if anything, I try to be undemanding and patient.  I love him for who he is - an intelligent, caring and charming person - not for anything that he would have to "prove" to me.  Our relationship doesn't need proving.  However, if it did, then today would have been a very good yardstick.  We have made the commitment, before God, angels and earthly witnesses, that we are pledged to one another into eternity.   Certainly 25 years is notable.  Eternity is another whole matter.

So the thought crossed my mind ... does this all make sense?  Do we really know that once we die, we go someplace else and the rituals and covenants that we call ourselves making do any good at all?  Are they really "in effect" once we die?  So this could be an exercise in futility and once we're in the ground, that's it.  That is certainly a possibility.

However, what if it isn't?  What if all of this is a fact and certainty?  Whether it is or not, what is the harm in living a morally clean and virtuous (to the best of our ability) life?  So we do a little good for others ... so we love, cherish and honor our spouse and our marital vows... so we respect and honor those who are called to serve in positions of authority ... so we are willing to give of everything that God has given us (we didn't do it on our own and the government certainly didn't split one cell that led to our creation) to the cause of good and virtuous principles.  What have we got to lose? 

If our relationship with God is solid and our relationship with our spouse is also founded on love, mutual respect and righteous living, then it really doesn't matter if it ends tomorrow or never ends.  Any period of time - whether reckoned by man or deity - is better spent when you have love for God, yourself and your fellow beings.

Commitment

I've come to the realization that once something is spoken and recorded, that constitutes a commitment.  This realization has done two things for me this year ...

... one, that once it is spoken and recorded, then I've made a promise (if only to myself) that I am going to follow through on something.  Too many times, people "commit" to doing something - perhaps out of obligation or just to get someone off their back or just to make someone else happy - and ultimately, they either can't or have no intention of following through.  Anymore, your word is NOT your bond.  Just because it is said or even written, doesn't make it so. 

Unless you are a person of integrity.

And two, that if you are truly a person of integrity, then you will not commit to something that you cannot either do or something that you do not intend to do.  Pretty simple.

Along with commitment comes accountability.  While it really sucks to let yourself or someone else down by not fulfilling your commitment, it feels tremendously rewarding to be able to look at what you've accomplished because you have lived up to your commitments.

All of the hard work, sacrifice and struggle to meet objectives pays off and you hardly remember the pain because the joy is so great. 

So what have I learned about commitment?

1. If you say you're going to do it ... do it.

2.  Be selective about what you commit to doing - be realistic and determine what is best for you and your situation.  (not in a self-serving sort of way, because your failure is of no good to anyone else.)

Making and keeping commitments will ensure progress in your life.

Gratitude

It is wonderful to be alive at this time.  It is amazing to see the wonders of science and technology.  Instant communications, advances in medicine, the availability of information within seconds, multi-media interaction available to the average citizen, improvements in hygiene and sanitation, rapid travel ... many of these things most of us take for granted.

In such a short period of time, these advances have taken place.  Within only a few generations we have gone from the industrial age to the information age to whatever you call it right now.  It is nothing short of miraculous.

What a time to be alive!  I get to witness this and be a beneficiary of all these advances.  I can also leverage these modern developments to create even more value for others and help many people.  Opportunities abound.  We still have many liberties that permit us the freedom to innovate, create, develop, build, leverage, benefit and bless others.  It's still a great situation to be a part of. 

The best way for me to show my appreciation would be to take full advantage of the abundance and blessing of which I am a recipient and make the most of it - especially as it is used to bless others.

Envision II

I am in control of my finances and my financial future.  Money doesn't control me - I control my money.  I appreciate that I have some and that it affords me opportunities to share in my abundance and feel a sense of security. 

It is no shame to have financial means, especially for those who have used their skill, talents and intelligence to add value and receive a return for that value.  I add value to other people's lives and I deserve to have abundance and means to fulfill my dreams.

With the resources I have received, I am able to travel and visit family, provide assistance to those in need, invest in future returns and create a stable financial future for my family. 

This is on me and I create my reality.  My reality is abundance.  It is a right and an obligation to pursue happiness and in turn, share in that abundance.  Having money and financial health is an indicator of one's well-being on other levels as well.  Healthy mind, healthy body, healthy spirit ... all go hand in hand with prosperity and wealth.  All are indicators of what is going on inside - the inner world is reflected by the outer world.

I seize the opportunities that come my way and make the most of them.

Envision

In my mind, I see myself running and jumping, turning and cutting, moving blithely about, light as air.  Flitting and fluttering about as if a feather.  Any physical activity is possible - stretching, reaching, moving with ease and without pain.

On a soccer field, keeping up with the play and meeting the ball with confidence and finesse.  Flicking, collecting, powerfully launching into the target.

On a bicycle, pumping and pedaling with stamina and ease.  Easily maneuvering through traffic and up hills.  Speeding along the path, strong and swift.

In the pool, swimming a variety of strokes, gliding smoothly through the water.  Tumbling on turns and assertively pushing off the wall.

On the yoga mat, bending and reaching, keeping a timing with breath and movement.  Strong and flexible, able to perform the expert moves and positions.

No matter the physical activity, I am capable and confident.  I am able to execute the technique and perform with endurance, and without pain.

Eliminating negativity

Wow, that's very challenging!  However, what a difference it makes.  I just feel lighter and more hopeful when I do.  And I feel stymied and heavy when I don't.

There was a person I knew a few years ago (he has since passed away, sadly) that had to be the most positive person I've ever met.  He had the fortune of working in a very customer-oriented position with some of the most challenging clients one could have.  He was perfectly suited for the job, as there was no one and no circumstance that could alter his sunny disposition and positive outlook.  He never criticized or complained, even when he has much reason to complain or those with whom he dealt were simply knuckleheads.

I wish I would've asked him his secret to remaining so positive.  Yes, he was a man of faith.  And yes, his personality was one of a very service-oriented person.  It even came out after his death that he served in many other ways that no one even knew.  He was quite extraordinary for many reasons.

How does one stay so focused on positive thoughts, words and deeds?  How do you keep the negative thoughts from creeping in and spilling out in your conversation?  I guess it would start as would any good habit that you are trying to establish.

Awareness - we probably don't even realize when we are being negative.  If I pay attention and note those occasions when my speech is not uplifting or kind, then I will begin the process of change.

Focus - once it is established that there are incidents that need to be addressed, it must be a constant focus and reminder of what we are trying to accomplish.  Keep your eye on the prize - POSITIVITY.

Habit - creating the good habit with the above three steps.  And then not beating yourself up if you backslide a bit.  It happens.  You just get back on the horse and ride.

I am certain that I am much more pleasant to be around when I eliminate the negativity.  (Who likes to hear someone bitching all of the time?  Not me - so I owe the same courtesy to others.)

Celebrate more successes

I've been taught that we should celebrate our accomplishments each and every day.  Even if those accomplishments seem small or insignificant. Everyone needs to feel positive momentum to keep moving forward.  Okay, that seems like circular logic or something like that.  I guess it stands to reason that if we're moving forward, we feel positive momentum ... ah, nevermind.

As is every day of this wonderful life, today was a great day.  It was good to get together with an amazing team and discuss action items for the upcoming week.  Everyone seems to be energized and engaged.  These are some great people and it's a thrill to be working with them.

We got a new young volunteer started officially today.  She's going to be great.  Young, energetic, smart, passionate.  I'm looking forward to seeing what she contributes.  I'm sure it will be greater than expected.

Although the weather was a washout - not much we can do about that - the day ended with a sense of anticipation for a positive experience for the kids tomorrow.  I'm really looking forward to having their involvement and input.  It will be great to get more of that perspective.

Fundraising efforts seem to be on track.  I'll have a better idea once the dashboard is updated.  We're certainly in better shape now than we've ever been.

While I sometime feel overwhelmed - I know that things will get done in their due time and order and that I must remain positive and focused.  I feel good, overall, and will not submit to panic or fretting - that is instant paralysis for me.

In all, a good day and looking forward to another one tomorrow.

Big, hairy, audacious goals

Many of us are programmed to be humble and unassuming.  Being brash and braggadocious (how in the heck is that spelled?) is just not polite.  Especially for the gentile and cultured. 

Besides, those big goals are for the big and successful people - like T. Bone Pickens, Donald Trump, Ross Perot.  In fact, I'm hard pressed to come up with any brash and braggadocious women off the top of my head, other than actresses.  And in those cases, one would imagine that it's more of an act than that they are really like that.

So as we quietly labor away at the mundane and mediocre little goals that we are taught to set for ourselves (i.e. get a raise this year, pay off the car, get a college degree, etc.), those with big, hairy, audacious goals are zooming past us on the road of life.  They dared to dream big and not be limited by what others' narrow beliefs may entail.

Isn't that what this whole American dream is all about?  Where are the limits really?  Who sets them?  They are SELF-IMPOSED. 

Believe it or not, most people are not afraid to fail ... they are afraid to SUCCEED!  Why is that?  Darned if I know.  I get stuck in that non-visionary thinking often times too.  That's why I'm really trying to bust my brain to open up and think BIG!  Mind power is where it's at.

I'm tested it out now and I'll keep you posted on that.  It's looking promising though.  Stay tuned.

Small victories

When the large and daunting tasks lie ahead, it's reassuring to acknowledge the small accomplishments.  When struggling to see progress and feeling as though nothing has been achieved, there can always be something, however minor, to hang your hat on.

Today included 35 minutes of physical activity in the form of bicycling and swimming.  I am feeling better each day and the weight continues to be released.

I was able to present the new/revised organizational structure for the program staff and introduced new job descriptions.

While only one person attended, I did host the girls' camp debrief meeting.  It was nice to chat with Leslie and get to know her better.

I helped a friend find a potential new place to live that is better suited to his life and work situation.

Something that I am really happy and proud about - I avoided the worst traffic.  Seriously, that's notable here.

Since I am extremely focused this month on the health issues, some of the other items have suffered or at least aren't progressing as quickly as before.  I need to test this and see how specific and focused I can and need to be.  Also, how much is too much?  Trying to do too much is as bad as not doing anything at all.

So my last accomplishment is striking a balance.

When to be political

'Tis the season.  The campaign signs are popping up everywhere, just like dandelions.  The junk mail has ticked up a notch.  The television ads aren't in full swing yet.  Neither are the radio ads.  I'll probably just watch and listen less in the coming few weeks leading up to the primary.

This is the height of "caveat emptor" - buyer beware.  Unfortunately, I'm hard pressed to find a "Consumer Reports" for the political class.  It seems that we are expected to go by what's on the label - with which ever label each candidate chooses to affiliate themselves.  However, ingredients vary widely.  Just because a person comes with a Democrat or Republican label, doesn't guarantee that they are lock, stock and barrel in the bag for their respective party.  And sadly, what about those who just don't fit neatly into the mold.  Those are the ones that I would like to hear more about, since our current options are less than desirable.

I am proud to say that I haven't voted for a mainstream party candidate for president since Reagan.  I never voted for any Bushes and I never voted for any Democrats.  (I would quite possibly have to give up my birthright if I did.)  I voted for Ross Perot, because I liked his ideas and the fact that he was not a career politician.  For president (and any other office for which there is one running) I will almost always vote for the Libertarian. 

So I give in to that label perhaps.  I would prefer to think of it as a "protest vote." 

So why am I sharing all of this?  I would like to think that I was raised to be polite and maintain a certain level of decorum.  In polite society, one doesn't discuss religion or politics and I tend to abide by that guideline ... unless someone asks.  And then if it appears that the person has inquired to merely pick a fight, and all efforts to remain civil are pointless, I cease the discussion.  It takes two to fight and I am not going to be one of them.

For the most part, I believe it is possible to agree to disagree.  At the same time, I will not force a person to believe a certain way or vote a certain way and I expect the same respect.  Perhaps in the course of the discussion, we may both learn something.

Regardless of party or philosophy, the point of elected office is public service.  And I will give you an example of what I am looking for when it comes to a basis for assessing a candidate.  Please note that this is not meant as an attack or heaven forbid, an endorsement.  It's merely my observation.

There is a candidate for the county commission district in which I live.  She happens to be the incumbent.  I did not vote for her in the last election.  And I won't vote for her in the coming election either.  And I'll show you why:

The sign says "Let's Keep Commissioner Gail Hambrick - Committed to Community"

These signs are placed all along this stretch of residential road in Ms. Hambrick's district.  Maybe it's just me, but I would be embarrassed to associate my name with this particular community, especially if I were touting the fact that I'm "committed to community."  The weeds, the tall grass, the broken glass on the sidewalk, the litter.  (You can't see it in the picture, but there's even a condom wrapper lying nearby.)  What kind of community is this?  A pretty run-down, undesirable one, I'd imagine. 

I live in this neighborhood and walk or ride or drive this stretch of road every day.  I've gone through there on occasion and picked up litter.  I have even been waging a personal crusade against the random illegal sign posters, selling everything from carpet cleaning to cash for junk cars, pulling them up as fast as they place them.  (For the record, I do not touch the campaign signs, as I know that is a "no no" - unless the election is over.  Then they will go into the trash, right along with reunion t-shirt man and anointed hands moving service signs.)

The county does a pretty lousy job of maintaining the roadside in general.  When the grass does get mowed, they just leave the tall clippings laying on the sidewalk, counting on the wind and rain to clear it off.  We're talking 12 plus inches of grass - it would take a hurricane to get that stuff off of there.  Can't the county just break down and buy a damn leaf blower?

You may consider this a trivial issue to complain about, especially when compared to crime and the economy.  Yet this small thing is one of many small things that adds up to big things.  Who would buy a house in THIS neighborhood?  How would a criminal treat the people who live in this neighborhood?  What kind of respect does the citizenry demonstrate for their own community when it looks like this?  What on earth are we teaching our kids?!?

Based on this small test, Gail Hambrick fails miserably in my eyes.  She will not get my vote and I would just as soon write in "Mickey Mouse" before I would cast a vote for this politician.  She just paid a lackey or found a hapless volunteer to scatter a bunch of signs, adding to the blight in the community, without giving a second thought about the community that she supposedly serves.

So when it is time to take a stand, that is when I will be political.  And all politics are local.  Whoever is elected president this year, it probably won't make a spec of difference in my life which one it is.  But if I could find a true public servant to serve in my community, I would sleep much better at night in my neighborhood.

Meditation on a birthday

So now I've officially surpassed age 49 and I am now working on my fiftieth year.  What a half a century it's been.  Physically, I know that the second century may be a bit of a challenge, but mentally I am looking forward to it.  Bring it on, baby.

As the old saying goes - "if I knew then what I know now..."  Given the living I've experienced thus far, I feel justified in reveling in wisdom.  Clearly, I do NOT know everything - so let's get that out there right now.  Yes, I'm still learning and will always continue to learn and have much, much more to learn. 

Life is a learning experience ... that's what makes it so interesting.  Each year has brought new insights, new discoveries, a mystery unfolded.  It has been wonderful!  And unpredictable.  I'm glad.  Being one that is not easily surprised, I appreciate that I don't always know what to expect. 

And because I try to face everything with a positive attitude and I know that I will not be tested beyond my capability to endure whatever I must face, there are no horrible surprises awaiting.  Certainly, there are times of discomfort and trial.  Yet looking back through the years, nothing that is so extreme as to deter me along my journey.  I would consider my 49 years to be truly blessed. 

So looking forward to another half a century, I will take what I have learned and live up to my obligation to teach and help others.  We can't let that hard-earned wisdom go to waste.

Partner in crime

Okay, I admit it... I like to be the center of attention.  And yes, I do like receiving credit where credit is due.  Sure, I'm a bit self-absorbed.  And?

It's a gift, I guess.

On a serious note, though, I have to speak on someone who doesn't get nearly enough credit for his contribution to MY success.  That is my partner in crime, Harvey.

We've been scheming together for the past 26 plus years.  In a variety of areas - work, money, soccer, social life, etc.  I have to say that I don't dare make a major move without his consultation.  I trust his judgement and I respect his opinion about things.  He's one of the smartest people I know.  He has to be to keep up with me - and I mean that.

He tends to downplay his contribution and value, but let me tell you, I'd be lost without him.  When he leaves me, he better not completely leave me, if you know what I mean.  I'm not much for wanting an intentional haunting, except in that case.

I just love how we see eye to eye in most cases.  We have had some disagreements, but nothing to lose sleep over (except for a couple of very, very rare occasions, which we got past really quickly.)  He's the other half of my brain.

So I'm not one for mushy stuff either.  Neither of us have much for public displays of affection - in fact, many people don't even realize we're married until we say something.  We just don't make a big deal about it.  For us, it's a perfect partnership, no need to broadcast it or reaffirm it or seek approval.  We've never really thought about having outside validation because it's what makes us happy and we belong together.  Like ______________ (insert trite example here of two things that are inseparable.) 

So here it is, my public expression of appreciation for my best friend and soul mate.  I love him more than words can say.  (Insert Freddie Jackson song here.)  I never want to be without him.

Happy Burfday, USA!

It hadn't really occurred to me before today.  A lot of people say that they are celebrating "the 4th of July."  First of all, why do we assume that everyone knows and understands what significance that day holds?  If someone were to be visiting from another country or another planet, for that matter, would they know why we're celebrating "the 4th of July"?  Did someone just pick a date out of the hat and say, "We're going to celebrate THIS day."

Of course not.

Again, it didn't really strike me as peculiar or off-kilter until it was pointed out that we have lost the reason for this celebration.  I don't think that we've forgotten as much as we have taken for granted that, "yeah, it's the United States of America and there was a war or something and now we have a government and stuff."

Perhaps we need to go back to reminding ourselves what actually took place over 200 years ago (236 years ago, to be exact.)  It was nothing short of a miracle that all of the stars aligned and this "more perfect union" emerged.

All things happen for a reason and it was no accident that the people were in place to stand up and resist an oppressive regime and incompatible form of government.  Incompatible in the sense that people could not flourish if not given the freedoms and self-government needed to  innovate, build, create and prosper.  In other words, pursue happiness.

We have so much innate potential, yet our own worst enemy is ourselves.  Once a liberating force took hold in this place and said "Why not?" it changed the game.  It changed the way we looked at ourselves.  We could be INDEPENDENT!  Captains of our own ship, pilots of our own destiny.  The only limit is ourselves.

NO WHERE ELSE on this planet could this have happened.  The stars aligned and Providence smiled down on the movement and the noble ones who took this responsibility seriously and pledged their very lives to see it through.

The next time that fierce independent streak rises up in you - when you are told "no, you can't do this" or "you must do this" - think about how this is the only place in the world where you have a choice.  You can speak out, you can take a stand, you can criticize - either alone or with a group, and you can disagree and boldly proclaim it.

Liberty, freedom, independence - these are the words that should resonate with every American and values which we should cherish and be willing to give our lives for.  Especially since so many already have.

Happy independence day.  Happy birthday, dear nation.  Long may you live.

One of my favorite months of the year

I just love July.  It's a great month.  Summer time is in full swing and the weather is bright and sunny.  Long days, full of energy and life.  The plants are growing towards a bountiful harvest and nature is abuzz - quite literally, as the mosquitoes are at their peak as well.  (Hooray for "Deep Woods Off"!)

It makes me happy to be born during this time of year.  Ir's easy to celebrate when life is so full and abundant.  One could certainly feel that same way just about any time of the year, I suppose.  It is just such a blessing to have been born when and where and to whom I was born.

Now nearly a half a century later, I'm beginning to realize how fortunate I've been all of my life.  I grew up in a safe place, with a walkable neighborhood teeming with families and kids my age.  I have two incredible parents who most of all, love and care for one another and reflect a foundation of faith and good morals.  I was gifted with a good brain and various talents.  Not only that, I've had opportunities to develop my talents and intellect and outlets to share and use them to hopefully benefit others.

There are so many blessings over the years that I would be unable to count them.  Relatively good health ... check.  Financial stability ... check.  A lovely home and stuff to fill it ... check.  A livelihood that not only puts food on the table, but is one that I love ... check.  Good people with whom I associate ... check.  Hope for the future ... check. 

I could go on.  Really!  Some may just say it's all about attitude.  And it is!  I think that a positive attitude has helped me to see the blessings and advantages that I have.  However, it's more than that.  I actually have advantages and blessings that I would be remiss if I were to take them for granted.  Not everyone has that same lot in life. 

I'm not exactly sure why I have the circumstances I've had.  At the same time, why did Harvey have more than his share of challenges from an early age on?  My suspicion is that it speaks to the type of person we are when we get to this mortal existence and what we have the potential to become both here and in the hereafter.  I'll have to wait on validating that hypothesis.

Ultimately, we have choices and regardless of our plight in life, we can be thankful and continue to aspire to greater things, or wallow in pity and cease to grow.  Thankfully, I have been blessed with a nature to choose the former and examples all around me of those who do the same.  It's a great life!

Happy July, everyone!  It's a great month to celebrate and be alive.  I am looking forward to it with gusto!

Supah stah!

I have to admit that I like the daily acknowledgement of successes more and more.  Even the small things give me a sense of accomplishment.  Who doesn't need a pat on the back now and then?

So today I helped an organization evaluate their process for serving their clients.  I think that I was able to add some meaningful input to the discussion.

After submitting a stellar proposal yesterday, I followed up today and received an immediate response and suspensed the recipient for a determination (by early next week... before July 4th?)  Given our favor with "friends in high places," I suspect that the proposal will be well received.  (And I just pinged those "friends" so that influence will be brought to bear.)

I got some tasky stuff finished today.  Although not as high a priority as the big picture, strategic sort of things, it still makes me feel good to get those off my list.

And speaking of strategic, I reconnected with our thinkx planner and moved that project forward a little bit.  Not sure what will come of it, as he will be leaving again soon.  However, we can get things underway at least.

On a more momentous front, our first Black Tie Soccer Game committee meeting took place and I was able to contribute to that effort.  We've only just begun to get it together with that project, although this evening was a great first step.

It feels wonderful to see forward movement towards goals and actions that benefit not only my well-being, but that of others.  That's probably the most important accomplishment that anyone could achieve.

Leading = Empowering others

I still remember when one of my kids said years ago that he wanted my job.  I thought that was great!  Then he learned more about what my job entailed and rethought his position. 

The funny thing is though, I can still picture him taking my job someday.

I have spent the better part of my working life watching, analyzing and learning about management styles and effective leadership.  Just for the record, management and leadership is not the same thing.  In my journey, I've seen some very ineffective managers, much less, leaders.  I've also seen some excellent leaders and managers.  I've also learned from being on the receiving end, what people respond to and what turns them against you.

I would like to think that I've tried and have been successful at emulating what I have perceived as effective leaders.  (This is a "success" journal entry, so indulge my self-congratulatory tone.)  While I still have a lot to learn and improve, my style has been effective and has yielded positive results.

The first and foremost thing that I have to say about leading is that you have to have a love for people.  You have to want to do what's best for the team and the organization, which in turn, is going to benefit your client/customer.  You have to set expectations and trust people to get the job done.  You also have to empower them to do their job, making sure that they have the tools and the support to do the best job possible.

You also have to be decisive, yet thoughtful.  You must be flexible about circumstances and methods, yet firm about standards and ethics.

And you have to be willing to do whatever it takes to accomplish the mission and in turn, your team will be willing to do the same.

There's so much that I've learned in the trenches that wasn't in the textbooks in business school.  And there's so much more to learn (that I'm sure is not in a textbook anywhere - even at graduate school.)  However, there is one guiding principle that should be in one's mind - strive to have a concern and empathy for those who are in your charge.  They are people and deserve the respect and love that everyone desires.  And they will perform like their lives depended on it.

At the end of the day, giving your team the tools to accomplish the mission and entrusting them to do the job will go a long way.  I think that people are self-fulfilling prophecies - you can predict a disaster and that's what you get.  Or you can project a stunning result and guess what?  That's what happens. 

Just an aside ... I marvel that I have been given so much responsibility and that I have a team that looks to me for leadership and direction.  Some days I feel hardly up to the task.  And other days, I love being in charge and I love seeing progress and accomplishments and people really rising to the occasion - and to know that I had something to do with them achieving such things!  It's not about a power trip - I think that I'm far to humble for that - it's more about making a difference.  Sounds trite, I know.  It's like when a builder or artist completes their project and can stand back and admire their work. 

Only my work is people work.  That is my God-given talent and calling in life.  What a privilege and responsibility.  And I wouldn't want it any other way.

Success!

It is a principle that success breeds success.  And acknowledging even small successes puts us into a frame of mind to further succeed and achieve.  Over the coming days, I am switching up the writing exercise to focus on principles such as this one to further accelerate the progress I've been realizing over the past four and a half months.  The writing exercise has been a good one for me - awakening those muscles that used to be quite strong, compliant and robust.  It's beginning to feel more natural and my eagerness to do it is increasing.

So that is a success that I hereby acknowledge - I am writing again on a regular basis and it's becoming less like drudgery and "gotta do."

Another success that I would like to acknowledge is that today I rewarded myself with something that I would not normally do - I paid a visit to a new community and toured a couple of open houses.  I also spent some time just wandering and window shopping at these unique little handicraft stores.  I really enjoyed being in the midst of the vintage feel and the rustic vibe.

Today I (along with Harvey) prepared a lesson for the youth in our ward and delivered it as intended.  I really enjoyed the time we spent with the young people and see so much good in them.  I even told them so.

I shared a personal story with a group of women at church.  I believe that in sharing it, I was able to encourage them to befriend those who aren't in our midst. 

This had been a very focused entry and that is my final success which I will acknowledge for today.  It's been one thing to write about whatever comes to mind.  This had served to demonstrate to myself that I am moving to the next level of achievement.  And that I will continue to celebrate in the coming days.

Something about flan ...

... that makes me want to wax poetic.  Okay, so I didn't quite get everything done and I missed out on my walk/ride/swim because of a summer rainshower (although I didn't see or hear thunder or lightning, my sources claim it was lurking and I am not about to take a chance.)

That is okay.  Because a little cup of flan makes everything okie dokie. 

So in about two weeks, I'll hit my last birthday before a half a century.  The most amazing thing to me is how much I still have to learn.  It seems like the older and wiser you get, the more you realize what you DON'T know.  And now I'm finding that it's not even so much about the knowledge you acquire, but how you apply it and more importantly, having the discipline to master the steps to apply knowledge. 

It's a process.  A constant evolution.  Thankfully, we can keep moving forward.  And as a wise person once said, if your not moving forward and learning and growing, you're dying.

I don't want to die.  I want to live!  There are too many great things left to experience, to accomplish, to savor ... like flan! 

The quest to be positive

Oh boy, it is hard not to rip someone a new one when they mess up (even if it's only in your mind.)  I'm sad to admit that sometimes I'm really critical of others.  (I'm also pretty critical of myself, but that's for another day and another post.)  It is a complete and utter lack of charity.

For those who may be a bit confused by the word "charity" ... as I heard described by a teacher once, it is possible to perform "acts of charity" and have not one charitable thought or feeling of charity in relation to that act.  I undoubtedly believe that because I've experienced it.  I've done "charitable" things, yet for all of the wrong reasons.  Out of obligation, looking for recognition, quid pro quo, guilt, etc.

So think of charity as not so much WHAT you do, buy WHY you do it.

Which brings me to my topic for today.  After the last entry, I really wanted to work on being positive - and more specifically, NOT being negative.  Not criticizing, not complaining, not lowering my expectations.

So today I go into a public restroom and as I am washing my hands and getting ready to leave, the custodian is sweeping one of the stalls and saying how everyone had treated her so badly today.  I wanted more than anything to say something to her that would change her mood and outlook.  She clearly had had a stressful day and even physically looked as if she had the weight of the world on her shoulders.  I pointed out that she didn't deserve to be treated badly.  She did a wonderful job keeping that restroom clean (which she did) and that she should feel good about that in spite of what people said or did.  She agreed but still bemoaned her plight.  I thought to myself that she has triggered the negative treatment and that I had to redouble my efforts to help her feel positive instead of negative.  I told her to have a good rest of her day.  She said that she was off in 10 minutes and would be darn glad of it.  I agreed that it was good and told her to have a good evening.

I felt a little helpless in that situation, because I really had difficulty trying to figure out what I could say to counter the negativity that has clearly engulfed this woman.  Short of staying for a while and talking and trying to counsel her, I'm not sure what more I could've said.  I also felt her negativity starting to weigh on me!  Not good!

So I leave the building and head to my car.  Looking at my watch, it's just before 4 o'clock.  Boy, did I need a haircut!  And the place I go to get my hair cut closes at 5 p.m. I call the shop to see if I could still get in and am told that if I could get there by 4:30, I could get it done.  In my desperation, I decide to go for it, even though I would really be pushing it to get from downtown Atlanta to downtown Fayetteville. 

The thought crossed my mind that even if I get there by 4:30 (she had told me that they leave at 5) that whoever would get my haircut (I go to a beauty school to get my hair cut by a student) would have to stay past 5.  I have A LOT of hair and I needed a thorough haircut, not just a trim.  Sometimes the students aren't totally focused on customer service, often they are young and have a lot going on in their lives (boyfriends, kids, drama, etc.)  I hoped that I would not get a student that was anxious to get out for the day and rush to get done.

I squeeze in by 4:25 and pay for my cut.  The next student up is Hope.  She comes out, gives a cursory greeting and leads me to the shampoo bowl.  She does express that she was not happy that she gets the last ticket of the day at 4:30.  While she does a decent job on the shampoo (which, by the way, is my favorite part of getting my hair cut) ... she has strong hands, but not rough... she does lack enthusiasm.  She leads me to the chair and we discuss the cut.  Doing my best to be understanding (even though I'm the customer), we begin to converse.  She is a transfer student and does not like the school.  She doesn't like moving to Georgia - having come from the big city of Chicago, by way of Philly, to settle in Sharpsburg - a small town in the country.  What a culture shock, I'm sure!  She seems self-assured at first, but comes to rely on the instructor for some guidance.  She handles herself well with the scissors and her little pink tail comb (which, come to find out, is not permitted by the state board - so she gets corrected, much to her chagrin.) 

Since I'm pretty much stuck in the chair throughout the process, I crack wise, reassure her, compliment her, and project the idea that it is going to be the most amazing haircut.  I converse with the instructor and other students while they are there (they pretty much bailed right at 5.)  All the while, I am projecting a positive attitude about the haircut and the person executing it.

At 5:30, the cut is finished and you know what?  It is a pretty amazing haircut.  Hope did a great job and seemed a little more relaxed by the time it was finished.  I thanked her for staying way past her quitting time and she said no problem.  I also gave her the best tip I've ever given anyone there.

I don't know if I actually helped in any way to give this student a positive experience and maybe a little more confidence.  I don't know if she feels any better about her situation or not.

I do know that I felt better because I really overcame the feeling of a negative outcome based on the fear that the student would project a negative attitude and it would affect the outcome of the haircut.  And the ultimate outcome was excellent!  A testament to the power of positive thinking.

Positive about negativity

It's a challenge to stay positive.  Our brains and nature are easily influenced towards negativity.  It's basic and a product of laziness.  Let's face it, it's easier to just give up because there is no hope than it is to buckle down and improve the situation.

No one, except for other negative people, want to be around negative people.  They must bring everyone down with them.  What is the saying?  Misery loves company?

On the other hand, some of the most amazing people I've had the pleasure of meeting and associating with are also the most positive people.  They never complain, criticize, grumble or moan.  They find the silver lining in every cloud and lift people up with their buoyant mood and complimentary words.  That is the kind of personality that anyone should try to emulate.

I've learned about the universal laws that what you focus on increases and what you project to the universe comes back to you.  So it only stands to reason that the more negative you are, the more negative your life becomes.  Likewise, the more positive you are, the more positive your life becomes.

So my pledge to myself and everyone around me - to be positive, complimentary, upbeat, "glass half full", hopeful and happy.  If anyone catches me in a glum mood or seemingly angry or critical, please tap me gently on the shoulder and remind me of my pledge.  And we should also be mindful of the ultimate outcome of a positive attitude - abundance, blessings, happiness and a cheerier disposition.  Who wouldn't want that?

For the love of pete, do not let this happen again

Today I noticed a proliferation of "Elect Victor Hill" signs in my neighborhood.  It's bad enough that election signs are a blight on any neighborhood (along with all of the other signs - which I will rant about at some other time.)  This man is a blight on the community.

It's a long story, so the reader's digest version is that this man got elected sheriff of our local county and turned out to be a disaster.  He nearly single-handedly turned Clayton County into a laughing stock, making for a steady stream of content for the local evening news.  (His only saving grace was that the board of education was nearly as pathetic and calamitous for the county as he was.)  Certainly there are challenges and no politician is perfect, but he seemed to seek after publicity - good and bad - with a persona and penchant for grandstanding that is unparalleled. 

So after losing the last election and being run out of town in shame - or so we thought - heeeeeeeee's BACK!  Even while under indictment for criminal charges relating to various acts of corruption while in office, he's bound and determined to win that seat back.  First of all, WHY?  What could be so compelling about becoming sheriff that he would go through a very public campaign and kiss a lot of ... babies ... to get elected?  It is just about ego?  Money?  Power?  All of the above?

Probably the most baffling part about this whole thing are the people who are staunchly in support of this clown.  Ignorant?  Looking for political favors (give or receive?)  Sadists? 

So here we are, just starting to get a little credibility back and not seeing the parade of morons on the local news program.  (DeKalb and the north Georgia mountain counties are cornering that market, thank you very much.)  It would really stink to go back to the "you're from Clayton county?" mode again - people think I'm retarded just because I live here.  No people, I didn't vote for him.

Please, please, please, fellow Claytonians - please do not elect this man again.  It will only cause sorrow and pain.  And me to get rid of my county stickers on my license plates.

The amazing human brain

Believe it or not, I am just now beginning to appreciate the capacity of the human brain.  How many times have we been told over the years - "we only use about 10% of our brain" or something like that.  And you just nod and say, "yeah, I can believe that" and then move on to the next thought ... never really considering what that really means.

Oh sure, you think, "Well, what on earth would we use that other 90% for anyway?"  Maybe we are meant to use it to levitate things or conceive of wild theories of space travel or spiritual healing.  That's just our brain, slacking off.

Yep, our brains are slackers.  That's why we only use a fraction of them.  If we really worked those puppies out like they need to be exercised, you can only imagine the wonderful things, powerful things, that it would be able to do. 

Some of the greatest thinkers of the modern era, including Albert Einstein, studied and theorized about some very interesting and revolutionary things that involve the mind.  I think that we get the impression that scientists just deal with theoretical and science application - you know, splitting atoms and the like.  However, the quantum mechanics have a very relevant relationship with our everyday lives and how we perceive and function in the world.

Like I mentioned before, I am just know beginning to get a glimpse of this truly out-of-the-box thinking.  These kinds of theories and applications are far beyond what we would study in traditional school and in my experience, not a lot of people really consider thinking differently when it comes to self-discipline and achievement.  And most people don't even know about these principles.

I will share more in time.  This topic deserves more than just a 10 minute exercise.  Additionally, I have much more to learn and I would like to actually put into practice what I'm learning in order to give it a real fair assessment before telling others about it.

So more later....

If I've never properly thanked you ...

... please accept my apology.  Not to dwell on my shortcomings, but I've been known to take things for granted. 

If there is anyone on this earth who is more blessed and fortunate than myself, I am hard-pressed to find them.  I have incredible parents and grew up in a wonderful place, happily isolated from the really icky things in the world.  I've got some terrific extended family and friends of the family that have been solid and supportive to this day. 

I owe that to my great parents, for whom people would do just about anything.  It's a testament to their loyalty and faithfulness as friends to others.  If you think that I'm generous and willing to serve, then you can say that I'm merely a reflection of the generosity and willingness to serve that were modeled by my parents and many others who were influential during my formative years.

If I were determined to spend the time to seek out and properly thank all of those who have been supportive and great examples to me, I'd have to take at least a year sabbatical.  "The Year of Thankfulness" doesn't sound like a bad idea.

In the meantime, perhaps I can just turn over a new leaf and make a better effort to show my gratitude in the here and now.  Send notes and gifts, perhaps?  Be quick to express it and be sincere, certainly.  Be mindful and make a concentrated effort to not take anything for granted.

So thank you for being a good example, for listening, for not judging, for being generous with your time and treasure, for being there.  Please know that it is appreciated.

Faffing

It wasn't until I worked with a Brit before I knew the definition or even heard the word, for that matter.  It could've easily been mistaken for a more vulgar "F" word.  And as Americans are prone to do, one could think the worst - it MUST mean something bad.

In a certain sense, "f-ing around" does have a similar meaning to "faffing about."  Just for the sake of accuracy (or as much accuracy as one could find by researching using the internet), I found numerous definitions and even an etymology of "faff."

The best that I found was this:
"Faffing – The art of doing something without achieving anything”

 Credit to Steven Aitchison from an article on Lifehack.org.  It's a good one - check it out:

5 Ways to get out of faffing mode

Apparently it's one that I need.  I am a veteran faffer.  I actually have to put on my "to do" list to NOT faff.  Or at least budget less time dedicated to faffing.  (For example, two hours or less.)

It seems that the "faff trap" occurs when there is something that is more daunting than I'm willing to undertake.  Thus, I while away my time in "faff mode" because I don't want to face what is perceived to be an enormous/impossible/drudgery-filled/tedious/grueling (you name the adjective) task.  And once I click off the faff, and set out to accomplish what I SHOULD be doing in the first place, it turns out that the task wasn't so bad after all. 

So in a way, the faffing is just warm up for the main event.  As long as I resist the urge to let the faffing take over and dominate my daily schedule and overrule the action items that I must complete, then a little faffing may be permissible. 

At least I won't waste any time worrying about it.

Back in the saddle

I fell off a horse once.  Lucky for me I landed on my sister.  Not so lucky for her though.  Without the extreme pain, it wasn't so bad to get back on the horse again and continue to ride. 

I've fallen off a bicycle too.  A few times, actually.  And the pain again wasn't so bad that I couldn't get back on the bike and ride.  The memory of the pain faded much more quickly and did not override the pleasure of riding. 

So I've fallen off of the progress wagon over the past week.  I was doing fairly well with the commitment to spend ten minutes or more writing.  As you may have noticed, the content is not so important.  It's more about the habit and conditioning that muscle. 

For someone who used to write daily, that is one muscle that has long been dormant.  So I'm not expecting miracles - that I'll instantly be the consummate writer, with creativity and inspiration flowing from every pore.  Ha. I would just like to reignite that passion for writing again.  I miss being able to express myself in that way and doing it with ease. 

Since that time, so much has changed.  For one, I am no longer the whiny young person whose so-called love life was a disaster ... at least in my eyes.  The whiny girl who acted as if the world revolved around the calamity of love lost and BFF betrayal.  (Actually, I really didn't have a BFF back then, which is probably why I turned to writing to a journal - "whoever" was whom I addressed at the time.)

So now I have a husband - of twenty-five years, I am proud to say - and I've accomplished a few things and spent some time learning about the world around me over the thirty-odd years since the journaling days.  I'm sure that the tone of the writing will have changed in that time.  At least the content is not so "emo" anymore. 

So maybe I'll spend some time drawing on the experiences I've had.  Or I can share insights that I've acquired through that experience.  Or maybe just humorous observations.  If anyone can find some value from it, that will make me happy.  I just want to help.

Some things that are worthy of praise

Just to reflect on a positive note this evening... here are some things that I think are just swell.  If you're unfamiliar or haven't considered any of these, then I would highly recommend that you check into them right away because you don't know what you're missing.

- Flan (or any custard, for that matter)  No need for explanation here.

- A swimming pool with a water temp of around 85 F - cool enough to be refreshing, warm enough to jump right in without having to "get used to it."

-  Rottweiler dogs - pretty smart, protective, strong, loyal, total clowns.  (I think dogs in general are pretty cool.  Even the little yappy ones.)

- The Georgian sky - there is nothing like looking up on a clear, bright day and noticing how absolutely blue and beautiful the sky is.  Set against the dark green of the countless pine trees, the sky in Georgia never ceases to take my breath away.

- Mountains - speaking of breathtaking beauty, I just love mountains.  You know how you are either a beach person or a mountain person? (sure, you can love both, but everyone loves one just a LITTLE BIT more than the other...)  Well, I am a mountain person, especially vistas and views.  Nothing like it.  You really get a glimpse of how grand and beautiful this earth really is and come to a much greater appreciation for God's creation.  As a friend once put it, being on the top of a mountain helps you feel closer to God.  I couldn't agree more.

- Anything fried - aside from the fact that I love food in general, fried food is my guilty pleasure.  If it can withstand hot oil, it should be fried.  Coated, batter-dipped and fried is a totally under-appreciated art form.

That is just to name a few.  There are many more and I will explore this thread at some other time.  I'd love to hear what others may wish to laud for whatever reason.  The world is too full of wonderful things to not take a moment to show appreciation by telling others about our likes and loves.

Hi ho, hi ho, it's off to camp I go...

Well, tomorrow at the 'butt crack' of dawn, I am heading to girls' camp.  This will be my fourth year in my adult years.  I went for about six years when I was 12 to 18 years old.  There were good times and some not so good times, but overall, I have good memories of girls' camp.

Now as a leader, I get to put my stamp on the experience for younger girls.  I'd like for them to learn some really important skills that they may find useful at the most unexpected moment.  I would also like for the girls to appreciate the beauty and majesty of God's grand creation called Earth.  Nature is simple and complex, awesome and inspiring.  Sometimes we just don't take the time to notice it.

Okay, yes the spiritual side of it is important too.  My big beef as a kid was that it was a little too "in your face" and that it was not an opportunity to discover our own spirituality.  Too rote, too pat.  That's just not me and it took me a while to come to grips with my resentment.  I hope that I can be a positive influence without being pushy or over-the-top. 

Lastly, I just hope that the girls have fun.  Singing, cracking jokes, playing games, doing skits and being just plain silly.  This is the place for just that ... no make up, no pretenses, no putting on airs.  At least, not in theory.  Sometimes it takes a minute to get that point across.  Along those lines, I also hope that there is no drama.  Get over yourself, get along with one another and just chillax.

So off to camp I go.  See you at the end of the week.  After a hot shower and a nap, of course.

Extolling the virtues of Western civilization

I just happened to catch a program on PBS this evening that outlined the six "killer apps" of Western civilization. 

1. Political competition
2. Democracy
3. Science
4. Medicine
5. Consumerism
6. Work ethic
(I think that Rule of Law and Private Property Rights were somewhere in there too, just not sure how they were included.)

So this may not be exactly what was explained, because I caught the tail end of the program and I might have missed something in there. 

What caught my attention was how China is quickly adopting many of those apps, although it is still controlled by communist rule.  They even pointed out how China is anticipated to become over 30 percent Christian in the next X number of years.

Which led to the film maker's next point - how we have lost faith.  The narrator said that we don't even have faith in ourselves, much less, God.  He then went on to point out how the rest of the world has adopted OUR killer apps - democracy in Peru, science in Arabia, medicine in Africa, consumerism in Turkey, and so on. 

However, the last point he made, as he stood overlooking the smog-enshrouded Shanghai, was that the West still had all of the apps.  And while the West wasn't perfect, it was still the best, primarily because he had the freedom to think that and say that.

I am thankful every day for where and when I was born.  I am truly blessed.  It was good to have a reminder.

If getting rich was easy ...

... then everybody would be rich.  

My latest endeavor has been a journey of self-improvement.  I got the kick in the butt I needed from a seminar I attended in January.  In a way, I expected this to happen, although I had never considered attending a personal growth/motivational/financial education seminar until recently.  

Essentially, I have been on cruise control for the past twenty something years.  Enough of settling for comfortable, okay, getting by ... to be honest, I believed I didn't have it in me or that I had already wasted too much time and that I could never recover and make up for the time I lost.

I've had a "come to Jesus" moment and have rethought that conclusion.  Whether it's "too late" or not, I should at least try to do better, be better and have better.  If time runs out, at least I've kicked it into a higher gear and aspired to live up to my potential.

If my time to work the plan and be held accountable for my results continues on, then who knows what I could achieve?  That's what I'd like to find out.  It ain't easy, but no one ever said it would be. 

 

Thanks to Seth Godin ...

One of the most prolific writers I know.  And I'm not talking about cranking out epic novel after epic novel a la "War and Peace."  If so, I wouldn't read his work.  However, some of his stuff is pretty "epic" in the sense that it is thought-provoking and wise.  His clarity and focus is amazing and his ideas are a never ending source of inspiration for me. 

Okay, I'll stop gushing.  Just check out his work for yourself, if you don't believe me.  And I have to admit, I'm a marketing nerd and "organizational management" is a bit of a preoccupation of mine.  Call me crazy!

One of his recent posts really hit home for me.  Mainly because I've been struggling to get back onto the writing wagon for some time now.  I just never seem to make any headway and give up before I start.  One good post and I'm through.  

I think it has to do with time.  I'm a bit verbose.  And overwhelmed.  But check this out:

"All day long you're emailing or tweeting or liking or meeting... and every once in a while, something tangible is produced. But is there a mark of your passage? Fifty years later, we might hear a demo tape or an outtake of something a musician scratched together while making an album. Often, though, there's no trace.

What would happen if you took ten minutes of coffeebreak downtime every day and produced an online artifact instead? What if your collected thoughts about your industry became an ebook or a series of useful instructions or pages or videos?"

That's Seth ... he's talking to ME!   And he makes it sound so simple.  Just 10 minutes a day.  I think I can do that.  


So here it is, people.  My commitment ... in writing ... 10 minutes a day.  (And twice on Sunday.)  I can do this!  Flex that writing muscle, build that habit.  Spend one of those WWF breaks on the blog.  (Sorry 'words' friends, you'll just have to wait a few more hours for that next word.)


While I can't promise that they will all be gems (even Seth can have his off days), I can commit to consistency.  And one gem out of 10 posts is still a gem.  And much better than ZERO gems out of ZERO posts.